Bay welcomes the ‘Praying Shell’

A brand new sculpture overlooking Morecambe Bay is all set for its unveiling.

‘Praying Shell’ will be sited at Red Bank Farm at Bolton-le-Sands, close to where Chinese cockle pickers lost their lives in the 2004 tragedy.

But artist Anthony Padgett says that while people are bound to link the sculpture with the cockling disaster, he actually first had the idea 10 years before.

“I created a smaller version of the ‘Praying Shell’ in 1994,” said Anthony, who is from Morecambe.

“It combines themes from nature with the spiritual heritage of Morecambe Bay to create a potent symbol of reflection, renewal and environmental integration. The work will provide a point of interest and inspiration for walkers along the coastal path. Its symbolism is intended to parallel humanity’s openness to a larger dimension and the way cockle shells open as the tide comes in.”

The sculpture will be unveiled by Councillor Ron Sands who has known Anthony for many years and is cabinet member responsible for leisure, culture and tourism.

Anthony’s other works include the award winning Millennium Angel at Leighton Hall. He is also a dance teacher and author.

The sculpture will be unveiled at a Sunset Soiree at 3pm on Saturday, November 30. Meet at 2.30pm at Archers Cafe, Red Bank Farm to head to the site for unveiling at 3pm.